Rhoades Asks DEP to Require Personal Tracking Devices to Locate Trapped Miners in Emergencies

HARRISBURG -- Senator James J. Rhoades (R-29) asked the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today to require all underground miners to be outfitted with a personal tracking device in case of emergencies such as the July 2002 Quecreek Mine accident in Somerset County and the recent mine tragedies in West Virginia.

A member of the Senate Environmental Resources & Energy Committee, Rhoades made the suggestion during a public hearing on mine safety at the state Capitol. He challenged DEP to implement new regulations or support a measure that would require personal tracking devices, which are about the size of a beeper and would help to locate trapped miners. Rhoades noted that similar devices using text messaging and global positioning systems (GPS) are currently used in Australia's mines.

Under questioning by Rhoades, DEP Secretary Kathleen McGinty said that the West Virginia legislature has passed several pieces of legislation to ensure miner safety in light of the recent incidents. They include providing oxygen for trapped miners, new emergency notification requirements, and communication and tracking devices. McGinty said DEP would support legislation to make similar improvements for Pennsylvania's mines. She explained that new communication technologies may be forthcoming that will provide added safety.

Rhoades said he would be happy to continue working with the committee and with DEP to develop solutions. "When it comes to lives lost in mines, there are no excuses," he stressed.